Delicious Beef Stew With Butter Dumplings

Welcome to the ultimate comfort food experience with my recipe for Beef Stew With Butter Dumplings! This hearty dish is perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or whenever you crave a warm and nourishing meal. The tender chunks of beef, rich broth, and fluffy butter dumplings create a satisfying combination that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Whether you're an experienced chef or a kitchen newbie, this recipe is easy to follow and sure to impress!

Ingredients

For the Beef Stew:

• 2 lbs (900 g) beef chuck, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 2 tablespoons (30 ml) olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 medium carrots, sliced
• 3 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
• 2 cups (480 ml) beef broth
• 1 cup (240 ml) red wine (optional)
• 2 tablespoons (30 g) tomato paste
• 1 teaspoon (5 g) dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon (5 g) dried rosemary
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons (30 g) flour (for thickening, optional)

For the Butter Dumplings:

• 1 cup (120 g) all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon (5 g) baking powder
• 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 g) salt
• 1/4 cup (60 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 1/2 cup (120 ml) milk

Instructions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the beef cubes and brown them on all sides. This will enhance the flavor of the stew.
2. Once the beef is browned, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent.
3. Add the sliced carrots and diced potatoes to the pot, mixing well with the beef and onions.
4. Pour in the beef broth and red wine (if using), then stir in the tomato paste, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beef is tender.
6. If you prefer a thicker stew, mix the flour with a small amount of water to create a slurry. Stir this into the stew during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
7. While the stew is simmering, prepare the butter dumplings. In a bowl, combine the flour, baking powder, and salt.
8. Add the softened butter and blend it into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs.
9. Pour in the milk and mix until a soft dough forms. Do not overmix; a few lumps are okay.
10. After the stew has cooked for about 1.5 hours, drop spoonfuls of the dumpling dough onto the surface of the stew.
11. Cover the pot again and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the dumplings are fluffy and cooked through.
12. Once done, taste and adjust the seasoning of the stew if necessary. Serve hot and enjoy!

FAQ

1. Can I substitute the beef with another protein?

Absolutely! You can use chicken or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as chicken cooks faster than beef.

2. How do I store leftover beef stew?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Just be sure to store the dumplings separately if you plan to freeze it.

3. Can I make the stew in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can! Brown the beef and sauté the onions and garlic as instructed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or until the beef is tender. Add the dumplings in the last hour of cooking.

4. What can I serve with this beef stew?

This beef stew pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a side salad, or even over a bed of rice or mashed potatoes for an extra hearty meal.

5. Are there any variations I can try?

Definitely! You can add other vegetables like peas, green beans, or mushrooms. Additionally, for a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some diced jalapeños.

Now that you have this delicious recipe for Beef Stew With Butter Dumplings, it’s time to gather your ingredients and start cooking! This dish is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Enjoy your culinary adventure!